Cardio-respiratory and perceptual recovery from a marathon run.

Seven male runners (21--42 years) were examined before and after the 1976 Boston Marathon to provide data concerning the cardio-respiratory and perceptual recovery from the performance. Treadmill runs, 30 min in duration, were administered 1 week prior to the marathon and 2--3, 6--7 and 13--15 days following. Treadmill speed was held constant and based on each runner's planned race pace. Maximal performance data were collected 1 week before and 2 weeks after the race. Data were analyzed using a 2-way ANOVA (4 thirty min run data collection periods and 3 exercise time points--5, 15 and 30 min) and "t" tests. Treatment effects were not observed for either HR or VE, however, perceived exertion (RPE) was significantly elevated 2--3 and 6--7 days post-marathon and VO2 was significantly lower at 13--15 days. HR and RPE showed significant time effects indicating a non-steady state response. None of the maximal test variables were significantly displaced. All variables were returned to pre-marathon levels by 13--15 days except VO2 which was lower. Aerobic capacity was not a limiting factor in the recovery from a marathon run. Muscle soreness and stiffness seem to be related to the increased perceptual ratings following a marathon run.